Run Mac on Linux: A New Era of Cross-Platform Compatibility

In a significant breakthrough, Apple has made it possible for developers to run Linux on their Macs using the Virtualization Framework introduced with macOS Big Sur, also known as macOS 11. This revolutionary technology allows users to create and configure virtual machines (VMs) running either macOS or Linux operating systems on Apple Silicon devices.

The Virtualization Framework is a high-level API built on top of the Hypervisor Framework, which provides a seamless experience for developers to create VMs using Swift. With this innovative solution, users can now leverage the GPU and use Rosetta to run unmodified x86-64 Linux binaries on their Macs.

The latest advancement in virtualization support was showcased at WWDC 2022, marking a significant milestone in Apple's commitment to cross-platform compatibility. The Virtualization Framework has been designed with flexibility in mind, allowing developers to define the hardware they require for their VMs, including the number of CPUs, memory, storage, and other devices.

To get started with running Linux on your Mac, you'll need to create a configuration using VZVirtualMachineConfiguration, which is the core class responsible for defining the hardware available in your VM. Once configured, you can instantiate and run your virtual machine using VZVirtualMachine, and attach it to a view to display it inside a macOS window using VZVirtualMachineView.

For instance, you can create a configuration with 4 GB of memory and specify the storage devices and pointing devices required for your Linux VM. With the Virtualization Framework, you can now easily run Linux on your Mac without the need for complex setup or compatibility issues.

In summary, Apple's Virtualization Framework has opened up new possibilities for developers to run both macOS and Linux operating systems on their Macs. This groundbreaking technology is a testament to Apple's commitment to innovation and cross-platform compatibility, making it easier than ever for developers to work seamlessly across different environments.

Run mac on linux